New cars to help SA learner drivers

Three new cars have been converted to dual controls so young people in Adelaide without access to a vehicle can learn to drive.

The cars have been provided to the Service to Youth Council for the Geared 2 Drive program and will help people aged 16 to 25 to get their P-plates.

"While most young people have a parent or supervisor available to teach them, access to a vehicle and strong support networks, enabling young drivers to meet the requirements, can be difficult to find," Youth Minister Ian Hunter said on Tuesday.

"We've pledged $40,000, which will provide professional lessons from driving instructors and

support from a mentor driver in their community to practice and refine driving skills.

"They'll also be trained in safe driving, risk management, communication and managing peer relationships in an effort to minimise the risks young drivers face behind the wheel."

Mr Hunter said the program would allow eligible learner drivers to complete the 75 hours of supervised driving required for a provisional licence.

Referrals will be based on need, taking into account a participant's lack of access to a driving supervisor, vehicle and funds to pay for private tuition.